Watch for Meaning in English
expression
ˈwɑtʃ/, /ˈwɔtʃ/ /ˈfɔɹ/, /fɝ/, /fɹɝ
WAHCH for
wˈɒtʃ/ /fˈɔː
WOTCH faw
Definition
To pay close attention to something that might happen or appear, usually because it is important or could cause a problem.
Usage & Nuances
Usually informal. Used with dangers, opportunities, or expected arrivals ('watch for signs', 'watch for the bus'). Not the same as 'look for' (searching), but more about staying alert. Common in instructions, warnings, and everyday conversation.
Spanish: estar atento a - vigilar (algo que puede ocurrir)Portuguese (BR): ficar de olho em - estar atento aPortuguese (PT): estar atento a - ficar de olho emChinese (Simplified): 留意 - 注意 (可能发生的事)Chinese (Traditional): 留意 - 注意 (可能發生的事)Hindi: ध्यान रखना - नज़र रखना (संभावित घटना पर)Arabic: انتبه لـ - راقب (شيء قد يحدث)Bengali: খেয়াল রাখা - সতর্ক থাকাRussian: следить за - быть осторожным сJapanese: 気をつける - 注意するVietnamese: để ý - cảnh giác vớiKorean: 조심하다 - 주의하다Turkish: dikkat etmek - göz kulak olmakUrdu: خیال رکھنا - ہوشیار رہناIndonesian: waspada terhadap - memperhatikan
Example Sentences
Children should watch for strangers near the school.
basic
I'm watching for my friend—she should be here any minute.
natural
Watch for emails from your manager about the meeting.
natural
If you’re hiking in this area, watch for bears.
natural
Please watch for cars when you cross the street.
basic
We need to watch for any changes in the weather.
basic